Read five facts about the Kaimanawas from Taming the Wild by Kelly Wilson!
- The Kaimanawa horse developed from Exmoor and Welsh Mountain pony breeds that were released into the wild in the 1870s. These ponies were imported on sailing ships and were a big part of early settler life. As years went on, other horses escaped or were let loose in the area, contributing to what we now call the Kaimanawa.
- Kaimanawa horses today have the highest amount of genetic similarity with the Thoroughbred and other Thoroughbred cross breeds. Arab, Standardbred and Clydesdale characteristics can also be seen in certain herds.
- There is wide variation within the breed in appearance and impression, but in general they are well-muscled and between 12 and 15.2 hands high.
- Wild Kaimanawas can be found in the central North Island Waiouru Military Training Area in New Zealand. They get their name from the Kaimanawa Ranges.
- The number of wild Kaimanawa horses is kept to around 300. This is done with musters every two years. Without the musters, the landscape wouldn’t be able to support a greater population of wild horses.
An inspiring guide to acquiring, training and riding your very own wild horse.
Understand your horse or pony better by learning these common body language cues
Join Christopher de Hamel as he travels across New Zealand for a series of author talks, exploring the connections between his South Island childhood, medieval manuscripts and 19th century Aotearoa.
In their own words, younger readers review their favourite Lottie Brooks books and why they love the series!
Not sure where to start with the Dungeon Crawler Carl series? Find out which to read first, and learn a little bit about each book.
Discover some of the best vampire books – from paranormal to gothic and beyond.
Learn about the inspiration behind debut authors’ first novels.
Penguin Random House is delighted to announce that Jacinda Ardern will be doing three book events in New Zealand in April and May.
They've closed the final Percy Jackson book. Now what?
Graphic novels are the perfect way to get disinterested readers to pick up a book.
Easter is coming up, and once the novelty of chocolate wears off, older kids still need something to sink their teeth into.
See the Penguin Random House NZ books shortlisted for the 2026 NZ Booklovers Awards
If it's your turn to choose the title for your book club, we've got you covered.